Do I have to use the N1 form?

For a paper claim, yes — N1 is the prescribed form for issuing in the County Court. For online filing, MCOL guides you through equivalent fields without showing you an N1 PDF. Both produce the same legal effect.

Where can I download the N1 form?

Free from gov.uk: search “N1 claim form”. There is also a continuation sheet (N1A) for the Particulars of Claim if they are longer than the N1 itself can hold.

Can I email the N1 to the court?

No. Paper N1s must be filed by post or in person at a County Court. Online filing is via MCOL only — do not email forms to the court directly, they will be ignored.

How many copies do I send?

Three copies of the N1: one for the court file, one for the court to seal and send to the defendant, and one sealed copy returned to you. Plus £ payable to HMCTS in fee.

What if I make a mistake on the N1?

Minor errors (typos, missing dates) can be amended at any time before defence is filed by writing to the court. Substantial changes (adding a defendant, changing the claim type) need a formal amendment application and a £119 fee.

The N1 claim form, section by section

Where to download the N1 claim form for free, plus a box-by-box walkthrough of what to write in particulars of claim, and statement of truth.

For each box: what to put in, and the practical tip most people miss.

What judges look for in particulars of claim

When did the agreement form? When did the breach happen? When did you discover the loss?
Show your maths. £2,500 invoice plus £400 of consequential loss equals £2,900, not just “about three thousand”.
Have you reduced your loss where you reasonably could? Mention what you did.
One sentence is enough: “Breach of contract” or “Claim under the Consumer Rights Act 2015 s.9”. You don’t need case law.
Always. Sign and date it.

Small claims court fees

Small claims court process

Letter Before Action